At the Build developer session, Microsoft outlined its priorities for the next release as part of the Windows 10 Creators Update, the most essential focusing on improvements to both opening and closing tabs.

Performance improvements

If you’ve had the pleasure of using Microsoft Edge, then you’re probably aware of the slight lag when opening a new tab and when occasionally typing a URL. Ultimately, this flaw spoils the experience and Microsoft plans on eliminating the problem.

Microsoft Edge design changes

Besides performance improvements, the company is also planning some subtle design changes. As part of Microsoft’s Fluent System Design, we’ll be seeing some more modern design touches in Microsoft Edge.

One new feature will be a new favorites animation alongside a new visual when clicking on objects in Edge. Most of the future changes will turn out to be pretty minor on the design side, but Microsoft is planning something bigger with its Fluent Design System to gradually overhaul its the Windows UI.

Progressive web apps (PWAs)

Microsoft also wants to bring progressive web apps to Edge. Google engineer Alex Russell coined the term PWA to denote websites that progressively become applications. This means that website will be able to offer more app-like experiences to users in the near future along with improved notifications and offline support. While it might be early for PWAs, it is encouraging to see that Microsoft is getting ready to support them.